A look at some of the headlines surrounding Manchester United as Benjamin Sesko receives a fresh verdict on his performances, while another star is linked with a move away from Old Trafford
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim will hope to avoid mistakes in the upcoming transfer window
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Manchester United have already been linked with several moves ahead of the January transfer window. Ruben Amorim’s primary focus will be to extend his side’s four-game unbeaten run in the Premier League, but United’s transfer plans will also be being formulated behind the scenes.
The Red Devils drew with Nottingham Forest at the weekend, ending United’s win streak but not completely halting their momentum. Amorim appears to be getting a tune out of his team, though not all of his players are fully firing.
Benjamin Sesko is one of those who have recently come under scrutiny due to not having the same type of impact as fellow new signings Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. However, the striker played the full 90 minutes against Forest, unlike some of his United teammates who are struggling for regular game time.
Amorim has already admitted that he expects some players will ask to leave the club in January and one United star has been linked with a move to Napoli. The Italian club have revitalised the careers of both Scott McTominay and current United loanee Rasmus Hojlund since the pair left Old Trafford.
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Kobbie Mainoo linked with Napoli move
Sky Sport Italia reports that Napoli plan to target Kobbie Mainoo in the January transfer window. The 20-year-old midfielder submitted a loan request in the summer and is yet to start a league game this season.
It is claimed that United are not considering a permanent sale, but would prefer Mainoo to join a club abroad, rather than another Premier League side. Napoli want to bolster their midfield after an injury to Kevin De Bruyne and would like to sign Mainoo on loan with an option to buy.
This situation could see United repeat their past mistake of allowing players to join Napoli, only to watch them thrive in Italy. United loanee Rasmus Hojlund has scored four goals in eight games this term, while former midfielder McTominay was named Serie A MVP last season.
Kobbie Mainoo of Manchester United
Kobbie Mainoo has played 138 minutes in the Premier League this season
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Gary Lineker identifies Benjamin Sesko issue
Gary Lineker appears to have agreed with claims Benjamin Sesko has made a slow start at Manchester United - although the former Match of the Day host has backed the forward to succeed. The young striker was signed from RB Leipzig in the summer but has scored just twice in 11 appearances.
Sesko’s recent performance against Forest was criticised by United legend Gary Neville. However, Lineker has been impressed by United’s new frontline and believes there is still more to come from Sesko - it may just take time for the striker to fulfil his potential.
"One thing I would say is that their recruitment for the first time in some time looks pretty good," Lineker said on the Rest is Football podcast. "Cunha looks a really good player and Mbeumo looks a really good player.
"Sesko I think might show something, I think he is promising, so I think it has been better recruitment, but time will tell on that as well."
Benjamin Sesko of Manchester United
Benjamin Sesko has been backed to improve for Manchester United
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Gareth Southgate addresses future
Former England manager Gareth Southgate has shared his stance on a possible return to the dugout. Southgate led the Three Lions to two Euros finals during his tenure before stepping down last year.
He was recently linked with the United job before the club’s upturn in results. However, Southgate has admitted he is not desperate for a return to management.
"I had an amazing time [as England manager]," Southgate told the BBC. "Obviously the great thing with England was there is the high purpose that you are … you know, I joined the FA to try to help English football to become better, to help youth development, in particular.
"I somehow stumbled and ended up in the first-team manager’s job, and we had a pretty good period. But I am not desperate to stay in football. I have had 37 years in football.
"You can never say never, because I have just seen Martin O’Neill at his age go to Celtic, but it is not something that is high on my agenda at the moment."
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